PROFILE
Having graduated with a Bachelor of Music and a major in Piano Performance and Teaching from the University of Southern Queensland (Australia) in 2001, he has since accumulated over two decades worth of coaching experience. A laudable track record of ABRSM distinction recipients bears testament to his indisputable teaching successes. Several of his initial proteges have even progressed to become finalists in the Louisiana International Piano Competition and Festival and honorary participants in the Master classes at the Royal Conservatory of Music. Many of them have also since led and taken charge of various renowned choirs and local symphonic bands.

PHILOSOPHY
The sine qua non for effective piano playing is the immersive and inclusive contemplation of the spirit of the music, which invariably involves the comprehensive preparation of the heart, mind, and soul. Only then will the soul flow through the fingers, and the music takes flight, finding the melodic channel of sublime emotions, perfecting the divine essence whose influences may remedy and purge this pungent earthly effluvium. Why Use a Grand Piano? A grand piano embodies the pinnacle standard of the variants of piano instruments. Given its versatile and protean nature, it is able to reproduce the spectrum of colors, tones, and dynamics required for an advanced piano performance. To settle for an upright would only limit and compromise the student's ability to fully harness her potential to express and emote the shifting nuances of the repertoire.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS... ... ACCORDING TO TEACHER ZACHARY
1. Thou shalt be keen and eager to come for lessons.
2. Thou shalt practice piano diligently.
3. Thou shalt not talk loudly after midnight.
4. Thou shalt obey the Teacher in all piano-related matters.
5. Thou shalt participate actively, respond, and interact with the Teacher by asking questions.
6. Thou shalt be encouraged to be bold and fearless.
7. Thou shalt prepare one's mood prior to the lesson.
8. Thou shalt be humorous (when appropriate).
9. Thou shalt dress appropriately for piano playing.
10. Please refer back to Commandment No. 1.

Leslie Richard Hurford Conferred the honorary title: Justice of the Peace in Queensland, Australia This webpage is in loving dedication to Leslie Hurford to whose devotion and solicitude I am eternally grateful. As a godfather, he was most gracious and understanding towards my flaws and infirmities. Even in what seemed most insignificant, he expressed genuine care for my well-being. Unspoken love evinced even in the tender act of invariably fetching me after lessons. Unfor-gettable memories. As a mentor, his encouragement and advice proved vital in spurring me on. In the toughest of times, a word of comfort and com-miseration. In the best of times, a word of celebration and congratulation. Finally, as a friend, he showers family and affections even to my family residing in Brisbane. Truly, this is a most time-honoured and dearly treasured fellowship extending through the generations. No words can ever repay the debt of gratitude I owe to him. It has indeed been my greatest honour and privilege to be loved, to be nurtured and to be known as his.